The Government has today adopted restrictive measures against individuals responsible for actions that undermine or threaten the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

The Government has today adopted restrictive measures against individuals responsible for actions that undermine or threaten the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

Today’s decision formalises the Government’s decision of Tuesday 18 March under which Norway aligned itself with the restrictive measures adopted by the EU on 17 March. The measures form part of a unified international response to Russia’s illegal actions in Ukraine. The measures include travel restrictions and asset-freeze measures applying to named individuals.

“This decision brings Norwegian legislation in line with the broader European response to Russia’s annexation of the Ukrainian Autonomous Republic of Crimea, which is in violation of international law,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.

In imposing restrictive measures on individuals whose actions have undermined the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, Norway stands together with the EU and much of the international community.

The measures adopted by Norway reflect the broad international condemnation of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. In addition to the EU, the US, Canada, Australia and Iceland have introduced similar restrictive measures. A number of other countries have decided to suspend bilateral trade negotiations with Russia.

“The international community has sent a clear signal to Russia today that the country’s actions in Ukraine are unacceptable and will have consequences. The measures are a direct result of Russia’s use of military force on Ukrainian territory and its attempts to change the status of Crimea, in breach of international law. This is a serious threat to European security and stability and violates fundamental principles of international law. Russia has a particular responsibility to ensure that the situation does not escalate further,” Mr Brende said.

The EU adopted restrictive measures on 17 March. The following day the Norwegian Government decided to introduce similar measures. Today’s decision by the Government implements EU’s restrictive measures in Norwegian law.

Any breach of the regulations may incur a fine or a prison sentence. The measures enter into force when the regulations are officially published.